Hypersomnia: Challenges of Excessive Sleepiness

Introduction 

Hypersomnia is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, where individuals experience recurring episodes of prolonged sleep [1]. People with hypersomnia struggle to stay awake during the day, often feeling excessively tired and lethargic. This condition can significantly disrupt daily functioning, impair cognitive abilities, and impact the overall quality of life.

What is Hypersomnia?

Hypersomnia is a neurological condition marked by an abundance of sleepiness during the day and an overpowering desire to sleep. Individuals with hypersomnia often experience difficulty staying awake, regardless of how much sleep they have had the night before. This condition can significantly disrupt daily functioning, affecting work, school, and personal relationships [1][2].

 

People with hypersomnia may struggle to wake up in the morning and may experience frequent napping or prolonged sleep periods throughout the day, sometimes lasting for hours. Despite sufficient sleep, they often feel persistently tired and dizzy, leading to impaired cognitive function, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating[6].

 

The exact cause of hypersomnia is not fully understood, but it may result from underlying medical conditions such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or certain neurological disorders. Sometimes, it may be idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown[2].

What Are The Symptoms of Hypersomnia?

The symptoms of hypersomnia can vary from person to person but generally involve excessive daytime sleepiness and difficulties staying awake. Individuals with hypersomnia may experience[2][3][4]:

 

 

1. Excessive Sleepiness:                                                                                      Feeling excessively sleepy during the day, even after a whole night’s sleep.
2. Prolonged Sleep:                                                                                            Sleeping unusually long periods, often exceeding 10 hours per night.
3. Difficulty Waking Up:                                                                                        Struggling to wake up in the morning and experiencing grogginess upon awakening.
4. Frequent Napping:                                                                                                The need to take frequent and unplanned naps throughout the day.
5. Lack of Refreshment:                                                                                            Despite sleeping long, individuals with hypersomnia may not feel refreshed upon waking.
6. Cognitive Impairment:                                                                                        Difficulties with concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.
7. Impaired Alertness:                                                                                               Feeling mentally foggy, sluggish, or disoriented during waking hours.
8. Low Energy Levels:                                                                                          Persistent fatigue and a lack of energy throughout the day.

These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall quality of life for individuals with hypersomnia. If you suspect you may be experiencing hypersomnia, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate management.

What Are The Causes of Hypersomnia?

The causes of hypersomnia can vary and remain incompletely understood[6][4][1]:

 

1. Idiopathic Hypersomnia:                                                                                         In some cases, the cause of hypersomnia is unknown, and it is idiopathic hypersomnia[4].
2. Sleep Disorders:                                                                                                Underlying sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or restless legs syndrome can contribute to hypersomnia.
3. Medical Conditions:                                                                                        Certain conditions like obesity, depression, multiple sclerosis, and hypothyroidism have excessive sleepiness.
4. Medications:                                                                                                                    Certain medications, such as sedatives, tranquilizers, and antihistamines, can cause drowsiness and contribute to hypersomnia.
5. Genetics:                                                                                                                There may be a genetic predisposition to hypersomnia, as it can sometimes run in families.
6. Brain Injury or Tumor:                                                                                  Traumatic brain injury, tumors, or lesions in the brain can disrupt the normal regulation of sleep and wakefulness.

Understanding the underlying cause of hypersomnia is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect you have hypersomnia, it is important to consult a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history and perform any necessary tests to identify the potential causes.

What are The Treatment Options for Hypersomnia?

The treatment of hypersomnia aims to manage symptoms and improve daytime wakefulness. The specific approach may vary depending on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. Some common treatment options include [6][5][1]:

1. Medications:                                                                                                      Stimulant medications may promote wakefulness and reduce excessive sleepiness.
2. Behavioral Changes:                                                                                      Adopting good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding stimulating substances close to bedtime, and creating a conducive sleep environment.
3. Napping Strategies:                                                                                      Implementing strategic, scheduled napping to combat daytime sleepiness and help regulate sleep patterns.
4. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy:                                                                      Therapy sessions may help address underlying factors contributing to hypersomnia, manage stress, and develop coping mechanisms.
5. Treating Underlying Conditions:                                                                              If you are experiencing excessive sleepiness, it could be due to an underlying condition such as sleep apnea or depression. Treating the root cause of the issue may help alleviate the symptoms of hypersomnia.

Individuals with hypersomnia need to work closely with healthcare professionals to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on their needs and circumstances. Regular follow-up appointments and adjustments to the treatment approach may be necessary to achieve optimal management of hypersomnia symptoms.

Conclusion

Hypersomnia is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and difficulties staying awake[1]. It can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning, affecting work, education, and personal relationships. While the exact cause of hypersomnia is often unknown, it can be associated with underlying medical conditions, sleep disorders, medications, genetics, or brain injuries[6]. Treatment options focus on managing symptoms and improving wakefulness, including medications, behavioral changes, napping strategies, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and addressing underlying conditions[4]. Seeking professional help is crucial for proper diagnosis and tailored treatment. By understanding and managing hypersomnia, individuals can strive for improved quality of life, better cognitive function, and enhanced overall well-being.

 

United We Care offers a comprehensive Sleep Wellness Program within their app, which provides specialized support and resources for individuals struggling with sleep-related issues. The program includes tailored sleep hygiene techniques, relaxation exercises, and educational materials to promote healthy sleep habits and improve daytime wakefulness. Moreover, United We Care has a network of highly qualified experts impaneled on their app, including sleep specialists, psychologists, and therapists, who provide personalized guidance and support to individuals seeking help for hypersomnia and related sleep disorders.

References

[1]“Hypersomnia,” Cleveland Clinic. [Online]. Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21591-hypersomnia. [Accessed: 10-Jul-2023].

[2]“Hypersomnia,” National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. [Online]. Available: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/hypersomnia. [Accessed: 10-Jul-2023].

[3]H. Stubblefield, “Hypersomnia,” Healthline, 08-Jan-2014. [Online]. Available: https://www.healthline.com/health/hypersomnia. [Accessed: 10-Jul-2023].

[4]“Idiopathic hypersomnia,” Mayo Clinic, 07-Oct-2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hypersomnia/symptoms-causes/syc-20362332. [Accessed: 10-Jul-2023].

[5]R. Newsom, “Hypersomnia,” Sleep Foundation, 18-Nov-2020. [Online]. Available: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/hypersomnia. [Accessed: 10-Jul-2023].

[6]“Sleep and hypersomnia,” WebMD. [Online]. Available: https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/hypersomnia. [Accessed: 10-Jul-2023].